MSc Cloud Computing

If you're looking to specialise in one of the most transformative and in-demand areas of technology, the MSc Cloud Computing at Newcastle University is designed to give you a deep, practical, and industry-relevant skill set. This programme delves into the advanced principles and practices of cloud-based systems, from distributed architectures and virtualization to security and scalable service design. You'll be based in our School of Computing, which boasts a fantastic reputation for research and strong industry links, ensuring your learning is at the forefront of what businesses need.

Your learning is intensely practical, focused on building and managing systems in cloud environments:

• Specialist Cloud and Networking Laboratories: You will have access to our specialist labs equipped with the hardware and software to build and test cloud infrastructures. This includes virtualised environments for practical work in cloud configuration, containerisation with tools like Docker and Kubernetes, and software-defined networking.

• Industry-Standard Cloud Platforms & Tools: You will gain direct, hands-on experience with the leading cloud platforms that dominate the industry. This includes practical work with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure, as well as tools for infrastructure as code, automation, and cloud security.

• Research-Informed Teaching & Projects: You'll be taught by academics with research strengths in scalable systems and networking. A core part of your experience will be practical projects where you'll design, deploy, and manage applications in the cloud, addressing real-world challenges in scalability and security.

• Collaborative Team Projects: The programme includes team-based assignments that simulate a professional DevOps environment. You'll work collaboratively to build and deploy cloud-based solutions, using agile methodologies and version control systems like Git.

• Individual MSc Project: The programme culminates in a significant individual project. This is your opportunity to specialise deeply in an area like cloud security, distributed systems, or serverless architecture, creating a substantial piece of work for your professional portfolio.

• Extensive University Resources: You will have full access to Newcastle University’s library services, with its vast collection of computing databases, e-journals, and specialist texts, alongside the university's own high-performance computing and cloud resources for student projects.

This programme is your gateway to becoming a cloud specialist. You'll graduate not just with theoretical knowledge, but with the proven, practical ability to design, secure, and manage sophisticated cloud computing solutions, making you a highly competitive candidate for roles in cloud engineering, DevOps, and cloud architecture.

Graduates of Newcastle’s MSc Cloud Computing often go into roles such as Cloud Engineer / Developer, DevOps Engineer, IoT / Edge Computing Specialist, or Data / Machine Learning Engineer. Because the course combines both theoretical foundations and hands-on industry-aligned projects, many alumni are able to step into well-paid and technically specialized roles shortly after graduation.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

Here are the specifics of what this programme gives you — in terms of employability, skills, partnerships, and long-term value:

• University Services that Help Students to Employ:

  • There is strong career support through Newcastle University’s Careers Service, which connects students with employer opportunities, helps with CVs, interview preparation, and job/referrals. 

  • Teaching is informed by research; modules are delivered by staff who are also active in relevant research groups (e.g. the Scalable Computing group, National Innovation Centre for Data) which helps ensure what you learn is up to date and relevant. 

  • The MSc gives you chances for real-world / industry-based projects and possibly internships via their network (e.g. Red Hat), which allow for both practical experience and networking. 

• What You Learn & Modules:

  • Core topics include Cloud Computing, Distributed Algorithms, Machine Learning, Internet of Things, Enterprise Middleware, Advanced Programming in Java, Engineering for AI, Research Methods and Group Project. 

  • You’ll do a substantial individual dissertation / project (often ~90 credits) that lets you apply what you've learned in a major cloud / edge / distributed systems context. 

• University-Industry Partnerships:

  • A long-standing partnership with Red Hat via the Red Hat Cloud Research Centre gives you exposure to industry tools/practices, possible internship opportunities, and potential employment. 

  • The programme is associated with the National Edge AI Hub, National Innovation Centre for Data, and other research/innovation bodies, which provide further links to cutting-edge work and recognition. 

• Long-Term Accreditation / Value:

  • The course is research-led and delivered from facilities like the Urban Sciences Building, which has been designed for state-of-the-art teaching in computing / data / cloud / edge contexts. This gives you modern infrastructure and recognition. 

  • Because you cover both theory and practical skills (virtualisation, DevOps, cloud security, big data, etc.), your qualification remains relevant as cloud/edge computing continues to grow. Employers increasingly favor people who can span both research & implementation.

• Graduation Outcomes:

  • Newcastle lists specific roles held by graduates: Software Engineer at IBM UK, Software Developer at Red Hat, Java Developer at the NHS, IT Portfolio Consultant in Oman, for example. 

  • Graduates are well-prepared to tackle roles involving cloud application development, enterprise software services, data & analytics, IoT, and edge computing. Many can adapt into system design / architecture or R&D roles depending on interest. 

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MSc Cloud Computing at Newcastle, here are logical next steps:

• PhD / Doctoral Research — The research methods training and large dissertation project provide good preparation if you want to go into PhD work. Possible topics: edge AI, distributed systems, cloud security, federated learning, etc.

• Specialised Certifications / Continued Learning — After the degree, you could gain certifications in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), DevOps tools, security, or specialised certifications in AI / IoT domains to augment your degree.

• Industry R&D / Specialist Roles — With the project experience and strong research/industry links, you’d be suited for R&D teams in companies pushing innovation in cloud / edge / distributed systems / AI / IoT.

• Leadership / Architect / Senior Technical Roles — Over time, you can move into roles that require both design + implementation + management (e.g. Cloud Architect, Solutions Architect, Systems Designer) because the course gives both depth and breadth.

• Academic / Teaching Roles — If you enjoy research and teaching, you could consider roles as teaching assistant, lecturer, or researcher; perhaps publishing from your dissertation etc.